Batalie bridge – one of the several bridges damaged or destroyed by Tropical Storm Erika

Tropical Storm Erika has left a trail of infrastructural damages estimated at $612.7M while 371 houses have been destroyed across the island.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit made the announcement on September 2, describing the undertaking to restore the island’s infrastructure as tremendous. He also specified that it does not include reconstruction of the homes at Petite Savanne and other communities.

Skerrit said many roads, bridges and buildings were severely damaged by the storm which struck on August 27.

Further, he noted that the Douglas Charles Airport was significantly impacted and Government would require $39.5M to restore it.

“Every piece of equipment at the airport has been destroyed and therefore the equipment has to be replaced,” Skerrit said.

Further, clearing landslides around the island will cost $12M, he said.

PM Skerrit said it is estimated that 217 houses were destroyed in Petite Savanne while the tally is 154 so far in other parts of the island.

Further, he mentioned that a United Kingdom (UK) military vessel with 150 men has arrived on island to assist in the country’s recovery efforts. The men will assist in Colihaut, Coulibisrie and Dublanc. The Prime Minister said the military team will assist with the establishment of temporary water systems.